Traffic study could change the city

By Staff
July 11, 2004
Two-way traffic could become a thing of the past on both the North Frontage and South Frontage roads along Interstate 20/59 just like it did long ago in North Jackson along Interstate-59.
Besides that, the four-lane interstate highway that travels in between the two frontage roads also could become a thing of the past.
An in-depth study of traffic in Meridian that the Mississippi Department of Transportation commissioned last year and whose final report is expected any day could suggest major changes for the city.
The report could recommend making the frontage roads handle one-way traffic. It also could recommend the widening of I-20/59 from four to six lanes or the construction of a north or south bypass around the city.
The problem is simple and one on which many people agree: Increasing traffic on I-20/59 and the frontage roads demands immediate attention, especially if the area wants to attract major business and industry.
Our hope is that MDOT officials, including Central District Transportation Commissioner Dick Hall, use the report constructively and help Meridian and East Mississippi plan for a strong future.